Healthy Eating Makes a Happier and Stronger You

When it comes to eating well, taking small steps can make a big difference.

For starters, try these five tips:

Eat more fruits and vegetables. They taste great, are low in calories and fat and can easily be incorporated into any meal or snack. Plus, there are so many different kinds, you’ll never get bored. Try to eat fruit that hasn’t been processed (for example, a peach is lower in calories and sugar than canned peaches or a pre-packaged fruit cup) and focus on roasted or steamed green veggies.

Cook more meals at home and enjoy them with your family and friends. Studies show that kids who eat with their families generally eat healthier, get better grades, use alcohol and drugs less, and are less depressed.

Watch your portion sizes.

The average American plate size has increased 22% since 1960. Try eating off a smaller plate to help reduce portions. It will take less food to fill the plate, and since the plate will look full, you’ll still feel like you’re eating the same amount.

Eat healthy snacks—like a piece of fruit or a small salad—if you get hungry between meals.

Don’t skip breakfast. It’s true what they say, breakfast is a very important meal. Skipping breakfast can make it harder to stay at a healthy weight because you’ll be tempted to eat more at lunch or snack in between.